A look inside: Lotus School

Address: 29067 W. Grass Lake Road, Spring Grove

Phone: (847) 973-4100

Web site: www.flgs.lake.k12.il.us

District's name: Fox Lake Elementary School District 114

Number of students/grade levels offered: 615 in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade

Number of staff: 68

School mascot: An all-star

When was school built: 2002

Interesting tidbit about school history: Lotus School was originally its own district before combining with Fox Lake District 114. Then, when the new school was built, the students and faculty of four different schools combined to come to Lotus.

Principal: Janice Mason

• This is her first year as principal, but she was assistant principal for six years prior.

• What is your favorite memory from Lotus school? "I think when we were still having classes at the old Lotus, the large trucks that were building the new school would drive around back and cause the classrooms in the old school to shake. What was great was the kids could watch the new school being built. It was a great learning experience. But, then again, it was rough at times because some of the kids did not have a playground."

• What do you think is an unique aspect of your school? "It's like one big family. We all pitch in together and do what is best for the students."

• What are you most proud of? "I think probably taking in all those students and staff members from different buildings and getting them into one school and turning us into a family. I think we have a great team."

• If all school enrollments were determined by choice, what would you say to potential parents to convince them to choose Lotus for their children? "I think most of our parents would choose Lotus. The parents like the additional educational opportunities for their students. I think for the most part, parents are pleased with the quality of education we give to the kids here."

• How has technology changed the way students learn over the past five years? Has that been a good change? "We've infused a tremendous amount of technology in Lotus. We have upgraded our computer labs here with Windows XP, and put in between two and four computers in each classroom. It's been great for students. Accelerated math and reading that is done through the computer. Every computer has internet access, which opens the world up to them. And it will enable children to be successful in a technological society in the future."

• If you can get one thing accomplished between now and the end of May in your school, what would it be? "We've started some new testing with Northwest Education Association Map Testing to look more in-depth at student data to suit their needs. We are looking specifically where kids need improved instruction."